Saudi Arabia beat UAE 2-0 to end 22-year wait for Arabian Gulf Cup crown

What the report says

Saudi Arabia captured the Arabian Gulf Cup on Tuesday with a 2-0 victory over the United Arab Emirates at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, ending a 22-year wait for the regional title, according to Al Jazeera’s report based on Reuters coverage. The hosts scored early and controlled much of the final, with Hammam Al-Hammami opening the scoring in the 11th minute and Firas Al-Buraikan adding a second goal two minutes later.

The quick start set the tone for a match played in a lively home atmosphere. Saudi Arabia nearly extended the lead before halftime, while the UAE threatened at times, including a shot that struck the post and a penalty appeal that was overturned after video review. Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais also made an important save early in the second half to preserve the clean sheet.

Coach Georgios Donis praised his team’s discipline and said the players had turned difficult moments into a title. Al Jazeera reported that this was Saudi Arabia’s fourth Gulf Cup crown, with the previous one coming in 2004.

The result may also matter beyond the tournament itself. As reported, Saudi Arabia exited the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the group stage, and the Gulf Cup win could provide momentum ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, which Saudi Arabia will host. General background: the country is also preparing for major future football events, including the 2034 FIFA World Cup.